The Latest Viral Craze

This week, TikTok's latest trend, "Guess My Age" videos, has taken the internet by storm, amassing over 100 million views. Users post clips asking strangers to guess their age, a seemingly harmless game that quickly turns sour due to the flood of negative comments and criticisms. While the trend might look like fun, the reality is often far from it.

Why Do People Participate?

According to licensed counselor Alyssa Scolari, the drive behind posting these videos is a deep-seated need for validation. Age, as a marker of identity, plays a significant role in our self-esteem and self-image. For many, getting feedback that aligns with their self-perception—or better yet, paints them in a more favorable light—can be a significant boost. However, this desire for validation can lead to unintended consequences.

The Validation Trap

While engaging in these age-guessing games might seem like a harmless quest for reassurance, the interaction opens the door to a barrage of unsolicited advice and hurtful remarks. TikTok user Kate Winney's experience is a testament to this, as comments on her appearance and personal choices flooded in, highlighting the darker side of seeking validation from strangers online.

The Emotional Toll

The negative feedback from these videos can have a profound impact on one's emotional well-being. Scolari points out that such comments can amplify self-doubt and body image issues, leading individuals to become overly critical of themselves. This can escalate to a distorted self-image and even trigger anxiety or depression, making the trend far from "harmless fun."

Reinforcing Unhealthy Beauty Standards

Beyond personal insecurities, the trend also underscores societal pressures to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. Advice to pursue cosmetic changes only reinforces the notion that youth and beauty are valued above other qualities, eroding self-worth and pushing individuals towards unhealthy behaviors.

A Call for a Shift in Perspective

Instead of fixating on age as a measure of value, it's time to celebrate aging for what it truly represents: a journey of experiences, growth, and resilience. The obsession with appearing younger only feeds into harmful cultural norms and can lead to increased anxiety about aging.

Seeking Healthier Alternatives

For those drawn to these trends, it's worth considering the underlying reasons. Seeking validation from the internet is a precarious path. Focusing on self-care, surrounding oneself with supportive relationships, and celebrating personal strengths and accomplishments are healthier ways to foster self-esteem.

About the Author

Michelle Rostamian is a seasoned Los Angeles-based writer and editor, specializing in beauty and wellness. With over a decade of experience in the industry, she offers a deep dive into the world of makeup, skincare, and lifestyle trends.